Are bumps on pitbulls normal
The Bumps on Pitbull: Heres What it Means
Pitbulls and other short-haired breeds of dogs often develop bumps on their skin. It is natural to be concerned when your best friend develops something unusual. Understanding what the bumps on your pitbull mean an important part is of being a responsible pet owner.
The bumps on a pitbull usually are one of three types. Bumps that form in the top layer of skin are much like pimples in humans. More serious infections below the top layer of skin can also cause bumps. Some Pitbulls may have bumps that form on bones or other tissue.
Whenever a lump or bump suddenly appears on your Pitbull, it is good to follow up to determine the cause. Overall, most lumps and bumps are not serious. Well discuss what bumps on your pitbull mean and if it is a symptom of a more serious issue that needs addressing.
It Isnt as Simple as It May Seem
At first glance, a small lump or bump that appears on your Pitbull may appear unthreatening. Unfortunately, a small symptom may be an indication of a much more serious underlying condition. Diagnosing lumps and bumps that suddenly appear on your Pitbull can be daunting and need the attention of a veterinarian.
To better understand the complexity of making a diagnosis, it is important to grasp what can cause the sudden appearance of a lump or bump on your Pitbull. Some of the more common causes of surface bumps on Pitbulls include:
- Insect bites
- Stinging insects
- Nutritional problems
Insect Bites The Bane of Us All
Just like you, biting insects plague many dogs, especially short-hair breeds like Pitbulls. Because of their fur, dogs and other animals are also subject to infestations of insects that most humans never experience. A host of biting insects tend to find refuge in your dogs fur, such as:
- Fleas There are more than 2,500 species of fleas in the world. Many of these species can become a problem for your pitbull. Fleas are a type of external parasite and make their living biting your Pitbulls skin and eating the blood. The flea bite causes itching, redness, and swollen raised bumps. Fleas are not host specific and will readily move to humans when given a chance.
- Ticks Ticks are parasites as well and are closely related to spiders. Ticks dont just bite and leave. Ticks latch onto their host and suck blood. The tick will become swollen and engorged as it feeds. The site of the tick bite may swell and form a bump. Ticks, like fleas, will readily move to humans.
- Mites Mites, like ticks, are in the arachnid family and are related to spiders. Mites are tiny creatures, much smaller than ticks or fleas. Mites are usually associated with dogs having mange or canine scabies. The mites burrow into the skin to lay eggs. When the eggs hatch and begin to mature, bumps and lumps on the infected patches may result.
- Mosquitoes Just like you, your pitbull can suffer during the summer months from mosquito bites. Many mosquito varieties will feast on dogs as readily as humans and the results are the same. Bumps at the site of the bite and itching are the most common symptoms of a mosquito bite.
Stinging Insects Bees, Wasps, and Others
If an insect stings you, it will also sting your pitbull. Bees and wasps are the most common causes of raised bumps or welts on Pitbulls who happen to make the wrong choice in playmates. Stinging insects are usually on the defensive when they sting.
Typically, insect stings are not serious and resolve themselves in a few days. However, some spiders and scorpions can deliver enough venom to be dangerous to your Pitbull. If you arent sure about the type of insect that stings your Pitbull, consult your veterinarian for an examination.
Most insect stings result in a swollen spot with a small opening or indentation at the center. In some cases, the insects venom may cause local necrosis of the flesh, which is much more serious. The swelling and itching may cause your Pitbull to scratch excessively. This scratching can cause further damage to the skin and may need extra attention.
Nutritional Problems Allergies and Lacks
Nutritional issues can also cause bumps or lesions on your Pitbulls skin. A lack of a specific nutrient may manifest as lumps and bumps on your dog in some cases. A food allergy can also irritate your Pitbulls skin. Your veterinarian can help you diagnose any allergies or nutritional deficiencies and advise on how to give your Pitbull the best nutrition.
Deeper Problems Bumps or Lumps in the Deeper Tissues
Several issues can cause lumps or bumps that are deeper in your Pitbulls skin. These problems may appear deeply embedded under the skin. In some cases, these bumps or lumps are painful to your Pitbull when touched. Several issues can lead to these deeper bumps on your Pitbull
- Cysts or Abscesses
- Mast Cell Tumors
- Fatty Tumors
Fortunately, most of these are easily treatable or are not a cause for concern. However, understanding these problems and knowing when to consult a veterinarian is an important part of dog ownership.
Cysts or Abscesses Painful Problems for your Pitbull
A cyst is a blocked oil gland in your Pitbulls skin. Much like a pimple, white substances are released from the cyst when a cyst opens or bursts. Cysts can become painful for your Pitbull and should be treated by a veterinarian when discovered.
Abscesses associate with inflammation or infection. The abscess is a build-up of pus under the skin. An abscess can form from a penetrating wound like a bite from another animal or an insect bite. If you find an abscess on your Pitbull, it will be swollen and often tender to the touch. Abscesses require quick attention by a veterinarian. Opening the abscess is important, as is a round of antibiotics to treat the underlying infection.
Mast Cell Tumors Skin Cancer in Dogs
Mast cell tumors are common in many breeds of dogs. A mast cell is a form of skin cancer that can exhibit bumps, lumps, or irritations on the skin or under the skin of your Pitbull. In most cases, mast cell tumors are treatable. Consult your veterinarian as soon as you find what you think maybe a mast cell tumor.
Fatty Tumors A Part of Aging
Older dogs may develop fatty tumors, especially in the rib cage area. Fatty tumors are a part of gaining in many breeds of dogs and are not uncommon. Fatty tumors are most often benign and pose no health risk to your dog. Your veterinarian can test your dogs fatty tumors and monitor them for changes or growth, which can signal problems.
Bony Bumps and Lumps
Many of the lumps and bumps on dogs, especially Pitbulls, are natural parts of the growing and aging process. Pitbulls are especially known for prominent bony bumps on the head. Many Pitbulls exhibit prominent occipital bones on their heads. In most cases, these boney ridges and prominent points of no worry.
However, if you notice a sudden change in the size or location of a boney or hard lump on your Pitbull, it is worth investigating with your veterinarian. A boney lump or bump that appears suddenly can be a symptom of a more serious disease that warrants treatment and observation.
Bumps and Lumps Taking Care of Your Pitbull
The occasional bump or lump is natural for most dogs. In most cases, these bumps and lumps are nothing more than part of life. However, as a responsible Pitbull owner, note any changes in your companion and take the appropriate action when necessary. Understanding what constitutes the usual from the unusual is knowledge every dog owner should possess.
Maintenance Formula Dog Food
Written By: Tiffany Ruiz Dasilva, VMD, cVMA | Professional Services Veterinarian, Wild Earth
October is National Pit Bull Awareness Month which means its time to celebrate these affectionate and loyal companions that are often mislabeled.
If you are a pittie parent, you know just how amazing these dogs are and you also know that these breeds can be prone to skin issues. Part of celebrating our pittie pups is making sure we keep them happy and healthy, and sometimes it can be a challenge to find ways to help make them more comfortable.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about pit bull allergies, and what you can do to help your fur baby.
Pit Bull Skin Conditions
We know that breeds such as the American Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier, are prone to skin conditions, allergies and subsequent skin infections. This is because pit bulls have short fur and do not have a protective undercoat, making their skin vulnerable to environmental allergens and irritants. Genetics also play a role as many skin and coat health conditions are hereditary.
Uncontrollable scratching, excessive licking, paw chewing, ear infections and skin infections are very common symptoms that can occur secondary to allergies, and if left untreated, they can quickly get out of control. Just as with all dogs, Pit Bulls experience three main types of allergies food allergy, flea allergy, and environmental or contact allergy. Keeping track of what time of year your pittie is itchy, and what symptoms they develop will go a long way to determining the type of allergy.
Improve Skin Allergies With Wild Earth Dog FoodFood Allergens
Believe it or not, your Pit Bulls allergy symptoms might be from the food theyre eating. The animal-based ingredients in dog food (beef, dairy, chicken, lamb, egg, pork, fish, and rabbit) are responsible for over 3 times as many food allergy cases as the plant-based ingredients. According to a study on PubMed.gov, after five weeks of their dog patients starting an elimination diet, more than 80% of patients had achieved a remission of clinical signs of CAFR
That means your dogs allergies could be eliminated just by changing what they eat, namely by removing those common food allergens, so consider switching their dog food. 86% of customers reported a positive health benefit for their dog after switching to Wild Earth dog food!
Try switching to Wild Earth Dog Food and adding in our Skin & Coat Dog Supplements to improve your dogs allergies!
If your pup does suffer from food allergies, make sure to eliminate all other sources of animal-based protein, including treats and table scraps. Our Wild Earth treats are a great way to treat your dog, without the itch! Try one of our flavors - Banana and Cinnamon, Strawberry and Beet, or Peanut Butter.
Environmental Allergens
Pit Bulls can be sensitive to irritants in their environment as they have short fur and dont have a thick undercoat to protect their skin like many other breeds. This means that their skin comes into contact with environmental irritants more often, including grasses and pollen, which can easily be picked up on walks. To help protect your pup from these common allergens, wipe down their paws and bellies after walks with a damp towel.
Other possible environmental allergens can be found in the home, for example dust mites, and contact allergens can include anything your dog comes into contact with, including household cleaning products, detergents, and shampoos. If you suspect your dog is suffering from environmental allergies, speak to your veterinarian. You can also help by changing your HVAC filters regularly, and using powerful air purifiers indoors.
Flea Allergic Dermatitis
Flea allergies, or flea allergic dermatitis (FAD), is the most common dermatologic disease of dogs in the United States. The allergy is to flea saliva so just one bite from a flea can cause an allergic reaction. An important step in ruling out the cause of your dogs itch is to make sure your pet is on a year-round prescription flea preventative prescribed by your veterinarian.
Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis
If your Pit Bull starts to develop dry, scaly skin, it may be caused by zinc-responsive dermatosis. This is a common disorder in pit bulls, which can develop at a young age. The issue occurs when dogs dont get enough zinc in their diets, or cannot digest it properly. Its a main reason weve added zinc to our Skin & Coat supplements.
Signs of zinc deficiency include red, hairless, scaling, crusting, or oozing skin around the mouth, eyes, ears, and chin or lesions on the nose and foot pads. If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, please consult with your veterinarian.
Parasites
Another reason that your dog may be suffering from itchy skin is due to parasites. Parasites such as mange and mites can cause itchy, red skin, and frequent scratching. Unfortunately, pit bulls are the most common breeds in US shelters, and they tend to stay in shelters longer, leading to stress, which decreases the immune system, and makes them more susceptible to mange.
Try Wild Earth Dog Food 30% OffGenetic Conditions
Genetically, pit bulls are prone to skin issues, and can inherit hereditary skin conditions such as zinc deficiency, mentioned above, ichthyosis, and some types of dermatitis.
Infections
Allergies cause chronic inflammation and decrease the skin barrier, so coupled with scratching or licking, can lead to infections, which need to be treated. If your pittie has areas of reddish brown discoloration on their fur, for example, this could indicate a yeast infection. If you suspect your pittie has a skin infection, speak with your veterinarian.
We love Pitties! But, sometimes they need a little help with their skin issues
Keep An Eye On Your Pit Bull!
We love our pets like family and hate to see them uncomfortable. The reality is, Pit Bulls are more susceptible to skin irritations and allergies than some other breeds. Fortunately, by keeping an eye on their activity, watching how they react to their diet, bathing them as directed, and giving them a supplement if you think they need extra support, can go a long way toward helping them live a more comfortable life!
Tiffany Ruiz Dasilva, VMD, cVMA
Dr. Tiffany Ruiz Dasilva is the Professional Services Veterinarian here at Wild Earth. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Brown University, and attended veterinary school at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Since graduation, she has worked in general practice, on telehealth platforms, and in animal rehabilitation. She has worked tirelessly to gain expertise in the field of canine nutrition through numerous certifications and coursework, and plans to pursue her Masters in Animal Nutrition.
